Daily Archive : Tuesday April 22, 2014

News

Proposal would give firefighters say in staffing levelsBy Zachary WhiteLawmakers could light a fire under local governments if firefighters are given a say in the number of employees each department needs. A proposal currently in the Senate would mandate that any community outside of Chicago must negotiate minimum staffing levels as part of collective bargaining with firefighters. The plan got the go-ahead in the House.

Slain Zion girl's grandfather testifies in death penalty caseAssociated PressA grandfather shook in the witness chair as he told jurors about discovering his 8-year-old granddaughter and her best friend dead from stab wounds in a Zion park where they had been playing, an attack prosecutors say was committed by an ex-Marine now on trial for his life in Virginia for another killing.

Rand Paul says school choice could expand GOPAssociated PressKentucky Sen. Rand Paul said voters in perennial Democratic strongholds such as Chicago and Milwaukee will think differently if they see Republicans not just visiting these places, but discussing issues pertinent to their circumstances. That’s the thinking behind the 2016 GOP presidential prospect’s current visit to the two Midwestern metropolitan areas, where Paul said the...

Palatine council debates proposed McDonald’s signBy Doug T. GrahamWould a new, large electronic video sign outside the McDonald’s on Rand Road in Palatine pose a danger to drivers? That question was debated Monday by the Palatine village council, which is expected to vote on whether to allow the sign May 12.

Elgin man charged with sexual assaultBy Madhu KrishnamurthyAn Elgin man faces charges of criminal sexual assault of a 25-year-old woman with whom he was staying at a motel in Woodstock, police said.

Report: Growing number of homeless kids in DuPageBy Robert SanchezA growing number of the homeless people in DuPage County are children, according to a new report. It shows 1,424 people used emergency shelter services in DuPage between July 1, 2012, and June 30, 2013. Of those people, 333 were children. “It’s my belief that every child in this county should live safe from fear and have their own bed, just like my grandson does,” said Carol...

Lawsuit seeks investigation of hiring under QuinnAssociated PressA Chicago attorney asked a federal judge on Tuesday to order an investigation into hiring under Gov. Pat Quinn, saying there’s an “embedded culture of patronage practices” in Illinois government and anyone who improperly got a job should be fired.

Dead 12,000 years, Magdalenian Woman's makeover beginsBy Burt ConstableThis woman who has everyone so excited, where is her head? “It's in my Subaru Forester, riding in the back seat with the seat belt,” says anthropologist JP Brown, conservator for Chicago's Field Museum and protector of the “Magdalenian Woman.” Dead for more than 12,000 years, the ancient woman's skull makes the trip to Bensenville inside a waterproof, plastic cooler for a...

Carol Stream man guilty on all sexual abuse chargesBy Justin KmitchA Carol Stream man was found guilty Tuesday of several molestation charges against two teens. He faces a minimum 28 years in prison. A DuPage County jury deliberated less than two hours before finding Joel Augustine, 35, guilty of two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, two counts of criminal sexual assault of a child and one count of child pornography.

Elgin veteran who fought at Iwo Jima diesBy Elena FerrarinGordon Schnulle, an Elgin resident who fought in the famous battle of Iwo Jima in World War II, was as much a hero as he was an entertainer, those who knew him said. Schnulle, 88, died Monday after battling pancreatic cancer, said his daughter-in-law Vicki Lang of Algonquin.

Parents of slain officer settle lawsuit with gun shopAssociated PressThe parents of a slain Chicago police officer and a Mississippi gun shop they sued for selling the gun used to kill their son to a straw buyer said Tuesday that they reached a settlement. Carolyn and Thomas Wortham III and Ed’s Pawn Shop & Salvage Yard in Byhalia, Miss., said in a joint statement that they resolved the dispute “to the satisfaction of all parties.”

Man gets 42 months in beating death of dogBy Lee FilasAfter apologizing to a Lake Villa woman for beating her dog to death, a Kenosha, Wis. man pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of animal torture and will spend 42 months in an Illinois prison. Martin Keller, 37, told Lake County Judge James Booras he had anger issues he couldn’t control.

Tech boom presents new wrinkles for Wrigley FieldAssociated PressThe Cubs are hoping to add a massive video scoreboard to Wrigley as early as next year in what would be the biggest renovation at Wrigley since lights were installed more than a quarter century ago. The plan has stirred plenty of opposition, with many wondering if modern electronics will rob some of the mystique that surrounds the venerable ballpark, which hosted its first game on April 23, 1914...

Wauconda mulling public-comment rulesBy Russell LissauWauconda trustees on Tuesday voiced support for a plan to continue limiting public comment at board meetings to the start of each session. Some residents have asked for two comment sessions per meeting.

Cries of anguish as SKorea ferry toll reaches 135Associated PressThe confirmed death toll from the South Korean ferry disaster rose to 135 Wednesday, but there were many more bodies left to be retrieved as divers swam through tight, dark rooms and passageways to search for nearly 170 people still missing. The victims are overwhelmingly students of a single high school in Ansan, near Seoul. More than three-quarters of the 323 students are dead or missing, while...

Police officer, firefighter of the year honored in ElginBy Elena FerrarinElgin’s police officer and firefighter of the year both ended up having successful careers in their childhood dream job. Police Officer Joe Riordan and Fire Capt. Robb Cagann were chosen by their respective departments and honored Tuesday night at the annual ceremony at American Legion Post 57.

School board head on Vietnam: 'I still can't believe it'By Melissa SilverbergIt has been more than 45 years since Bill Dussling served in Vietnam, but talking about his time as a helicopter pilot in the Army still brings up new memories and emotions for the Arlington Heights resident and Northwest Suburban High School District 214 board president. Dussling shared stories from his service in Vietnam with students at Prospect High School on Tuesday morning as part of their...

Ukraine orders new military operation in the eastAssociated PressUkraine’s acting president ordered security forces to resume operations in the country’s east on Tuesday after the bodies of two people allegedly abducted by pro-Russia insurgents were found and a military aircraft was reportedly hit by gunfire. The developments — just hours after U.S. Vice President Joe Biden left the Ukrainian capital — raised fears that last...

Hastert among Republicans supporting immigration reformAssociated PressSome of Illinois’ highest-profile Republicans voiced support Tuesday for an immigration overhaul that’s stalled in the U.S. House as a “morally right” and business-minded decision, an election-year move they hoped would help break the stalemate.

Arlington Heights man admits molesting teenage girlBy Barbara VitelloAn Arlington Heights man charged with molesting a 13-year-old girl in 2010 has pleaded guilty to the charges, court records show. Terrill Thomas, 30, was sentenced to three years in prison and ordered to pay $3,609 in exchange for his guilty plea to the class 2 felony of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, records show.

Pitbull added to state fair lineupAssociated PressIllinois State Fair organizers decided not to overhaul the state’s celebration of agriculture and entertainment for 2014, announcing Tuesday that the theme is “Making Memories” and that popular hip-hop artist Pitbull had been added to the concert lineup.

Aurora teen mother, baby found safeBy Lee FilasA 17-year-old Aurora girl and her 9-month-old baby have been found safe and returned to Aurora police headquarters, authorities said Tuesday afternoon. Police said they were following leads throughout the day Tuesday until reporting Marisol and Vanessa were found safe and sound about 4:20 p.m.

Blue Angels returning to Chicago air showAssociated PressThe Navy’s Blue Angels and the Army’s Golden Knights parachute team are returning to the annual Chicago Air and Water Show, which will take place Aug. 16 and 17. The Blue Angels and the Golden Knights suspended their 2013 performance schedule last spring after forced federal spending cuts.

Audit: Police training money misspentAssociated PressThe agency that sets standards for Illinois law enforcement officers misspent grant money for police training and didn’t keep proper records about sessions for homicide investigators and coroners, according to an auditor’s report released Tuesday.

Cook County sheriff reopens priest abuse inquiryAssociated PressThe Cook County sheriff’s office says it is reopening an investigation of sexual abuse allegations made against a Roman Catholic priest. The Archdiocese of Chicago last week reactivated the Rev. Michael W. O’Connell after the sheriff’s department concluded there’s no evidence he abused a minor 20 years ago.

Man convicted of 1957 murder appealsAssociated PressOne of the oldest unsolved crimes in U.S. history to go to trial ended in 2012, when a man was convicted of abducting a 7-year-old schoolgirl from a Sycamore street, then choking and stabbing her to death nearly 60 years earlier. But last week, an appeal was filed in a state appellate court on behalf of 74-year-old Jack McCullough, who was sentenced to life in prison for the 1957 slaying of Maria...

Madigan: ‘Misunderstanding’ on Obama library voteAssociated PressIllinois House Speaker Michael Madigan says there was a “misunderstanding of the rules” when no Republicans were in attendance at a vote involving Barack Obama’s presidential library. The Chicago Democrat said Tuesday at a Democratic Party meeting in Springfield that the vote will be held again. The measure would offer $100 million to lure the Obama library to Chicago.

Fox Valley police reportsAnthony J. Miller, 51, of Elgin, was charged with driving while his license was suspended, no insurance, expired registration and possession of between 2.5 grams and 10 grams of marijuana after a traffic stop at 2 a.m. Thursday at Foothill and Randall roads near Elgin, according to a sheriff’s report.

St. Charles zoning changes to provide space for medical marijuanaBy James FullerSt. Charles aldermen are set to approve zoning changes that would allow a medical marijuana dispensary and/or cultivation center to open shop in an industrial strip along the east side of the city. Plan commission members wanted to expand the area where such businesses could open, but aldermen indicated they are more inclined to restrict such businesses to one spot in the city, away from the...

Trustees say Lake Zurich must do more to cut costsBy Bob SusnjaraTwo Lake Zurich trustees say the village must look at making difficult cuts as officials grapple with debt and escalating costs including public employee pension contributions. “The one thing we haven’t done — and other towns have been doing for years — is to really, in my opinion, make the hard decisions regarding personnel. This budget does not include the...

Lake in the Hills Airport to receive federal grant for runway upgradesBy Madhu KrishnamurthyLake in the Hills has been awarded a federal grant toward the reconstruction of a 3,800-foot runway at its municipal airport. The much-anticipated funding announcement last week came as a surprise to village officials. “We knew the runway (funding) was coming eventually, we just didn’t expect it this early,” said Michael Peranich, the village’s new airport manager.

Gaming-themed restaurant planned for WoodfieldBy Eric PetersonNamco Entertainment Inc., the Wood Dale-based company affiliated with the makers of Pac-Man, plans to open a high-end, gaming-themed restaurant and entertainment center at Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg. The new concept restaurant, including eight lanes of bowling, will open in 40,000 square feet of warehouse space formerly used by Sears on the upper level of the mall, according to the village.

Waukegan library hours:Daily Herald reportThe Waukegan Public Library board has voted unanimously to extend by two hours the time the library is open to the public each week starting May 1.

Carmel presents ‘Guys and Dolls’:Daily Herald reportCarmel Catholic High School’s Fine Arts Department presents its spring musical, "Guys and Dolls," based on the story by Damon Runyon. Performance dates are 7 p.m., Friday, April 25; 2 and 7 p.m., Saturday, April 26; and 2 p.m., Sunday, April 27 at the school 1 Carmel Parkway (off Route 176), Mundelein.

Critters for kids:Daily Herald reportNew and returning patients who bring a stuffed animal to Bennett Chiropractic Care, 739 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, on Wednesday, April 30, will have their payment covered that day.

Dive teams remove car from Fox River in ElginBy Lee Filas and Elena FerrarinDivers removed a partially submerged car from the Fox River after it was reported stolen Tuesday morning, officials said. The 2004 Cadillac was spotted in the river near Duncan Road just south of Interstate 90 in Elgin.

Oral history of community colleges readiedAssociated PressA yearlong effort to capture the stories of a schooling system that covers the entire state and educates nearly one million students will be unveiled next week.

Lottery winner wants to help abused womenAssociated PressAn Oak Park lottery winner says she wants to use part of her winnings to help abused women and children. Yajaira Perez, 27, won $5,000 a week for 20 years on an Illinois instant lottery ticket.

Palatine restaurant enters hot dog hall of fameDaily Herald reportHot Dog Richie’s was inducted into the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame during a ceremony held Tuesday at the Palatine restaurant. “Hot Dog Ritchie’s exceptional quality, personality and hospitality make them an ideal candidate for our recognition program,” a Vienna Beef official said.

Lake County celebrates Earth DayDaily Herald staff reportAbout 100 students and faculty from Computer Systems Institute in Gurnee spent Earth Day picking up garbage around the campus and the surrounding neighborhood. They were among several Lake County schools to celebrate the event Tuesday.

U of I installing meters at disabled parking spotsAssociated PressThe University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign plans to install 150 meters at disabled parking spaces where there previously weren’t meters. The effort comes after state lawmakers passed legislation creating a tiered system for drivers with disabled parking placards.

Audit: Treasurer has 30 guns not given to policeAssociated PressA state audit has found that Illinois Treasurer Dan Rutherford has since 2010 collected 30 unclaimed firearms but has not turned them over to the state police. Auditor General William Holland’s report Tuesday said the treasurer’s office policy is to hand over unclaimed guns twice a year.

IDNR wrapping up controlled burns across stateAssociated PressThe Illinois Department of Natural Resources says crews are trying to finish a series of controlled burns around the state. The fires are deliberately set to stimulate certain plant growth.

Suspect charged with shooting teensAssociated PressA South suburban man has been charged in the deaths of two teenagers who were found shot in the head in the basement of a home on Chicago’s South Side.

Controversial vote approves Des Plaines ambulance purchaseBy Christopher PlacekThere won’t be much that distinguishes the Des Plaines Fire Department’s new $231,330 ambulance once it hits the street later this year — except the story of how it came to be. The city council voted 5-4 Monday to purchase a so-called horizontal exhaust ambulance as part of an annual replacement program, with Mayor Matt Bogusz casting a tiebreaking vote.

Beer sales still possible at Wheeling’s Heritage ParkBy Deborah DonovanBeer sales at adult sporting events in Wheeling’s Heritage Park could still be on tap as the village board postponed a vote Monday on the park district’s request to allow it. Village President Dean Argiris, who last month voted against a liquor license for the facility, kept the issue alive Monday by suggesting park officials return with more information at the May 5 board meeting.

Study: Minority kids hit hardest by Illinois lawAssociated PressA 32-year-old Illinois law that requires juveniles accused of the most serious crimes to be charged as adults may be discriminatory, prevents judges from exercising their judgment and makes it more likely that those who are convicted will commit violent crimes in the future, according to a study released Tuesday.

Carpentersville man gets 7 years in prison on weapons chargeBy Harry HitzemanA 26-year-old Carpentersville man was sentenced to seven years in prison after pleading guilty to a weapons charge. David C. Bridges faced anywhere between six to 30 years behind bars on the felony charge of armed habitual criminal. He was arrested in March 2013 with a handgun and had two previous felony convictions.

High court upholds Mich. affirmative action banAssociated PressThe Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld Michigan’s ban on using race as a factor in college admissions despite one justice’s impassioned dissent that accused the court of wanting to wish away racial inequality. The justices said in a 6-2 ruling that Michigan voters had the right to change their state constitution in 2006 to prohibit public colleges and universities from taking account...

Police: Drunken Naperville man slapped female bartenderBy Marie WilsonA Naperville man is accused of slapping a bartender in the face after she refused to serve him any more drinks, authorities said Tuesday. Kyle Francis Goro, 26, was charged under city ordinance early Sunday morning with two counts of battery, Sgt. Bill Davis said.

Elk Grove celebrates Arbor Day FridayDaily Herald reportThe annual Arbor Day celebration hosted by the Elk Grove Park District is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday. A new tree is planted every Arbor Day, and this year organizers are planning to plant a Quaking Aspen Tree.

Tours of historic cemetery in Hoffman EstatesDaily Herald reportThe village of Hoffman Estates Historical Sites Commission is offering guided small-group tours of Greve Cemetery, weather-permitting, at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 26. The tours explore the interrelated Greve, Meyer, Ottman and Sunderlage pioneer families buried in the 19th century at the cemetery.

Des Plaines librarian wins “Soon to be Famous” author awardDaily Herald reportJoanne Zienty, a Wheaton resident and library media specialist at Forest Elementary School in Des Plaines, is the winner of the first Soon to be Famous Illinois Author Project. Zienty was announced winner for her book “The Things We Save.”

Rotary Club of Palatine hosting its own 50th birthday partySubmitted by the Rotary Club of PalatineThe Rotary Club of Palatine is preparing to celebrate 50 years, with a reception May 6. The public is welcome to celebrate this milestone, which will include hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, and 50th anniversary program, for a suggested donation of $25.

Walgreens to sell alcohol in Arlington HeightsBy Melissa SilverbergThe four Walgreens locations in Arlington Heights will be able to sell liquor starting soon under a policy change that allows alcohol sales in convenience stores. “I am really impressed with security and what you will utilize. I'm very comfortable granting a liquor license to these four stores for that reason,” Trustee Thomas Glasgow said.

Arlington Hts. artist tapped to make award for CardinalBy Eileen O. DadayArlington Hts. sculptor Joe Burlini designed the award given to Cardinal Francis George earlier in April by the Council of Islamic Organizationis of Greater Chicago. “The chance to design a representation of peace was a thrill for me,” Burlini said.

Images: 9 other car crashes into suburban buildingsTwo Starbucks customers were injured and taken to a nearby hospital after a car crashed into a Schaumburg coffee shop Monday afternoon. Here are images from 10 other crashes in the suburbs involving cars and buildings.

Court upholds traffic stop based on anonymous tipAssociated PressWASHINGTON — The Supreme Court says an anonymous tip can be sufficient to justify a decision by police to pull a car over on suspicion of reckless or drunken driving.The justices voted 5-4 Tuesday to uphold a traffic stop in northern California in which officers subsequently found marijuana in the vehicle. The officers themselves did not see any evidence of reckless driving.

Drones unearth more details about Chaco cultureAssociated PressRecently published research describes how archaeologists outfitted a customized drone with a heat-sensing camera to unearth what they believe are ceremonial pits and other features at the site of an ancient village in New Mexico. The discovery of the structures hidden beneath layers of sediment and sagebrush is being hailed as an important step that could help archaeologists shed light on...

Naperville junior high entrance work gets one dissenterBy Marie WilsonMadison Junior High in Naperville will be getting a new front entrance with security and energy efficiency upgrades this summer, but one school board member questioned why that school is getting special treatment. “I know we have lots of schools that could use that,” Crotty said about the safety and security enhancements Madison will be receiving. “I was surprised to see it...

Naperville turns train wreck tragedy to ‘Triumph’ with sculptureBy Marie WilsonOne day after the 68th anniversary of a train wreck that killed 45 people, a crowd will gather at the crash site in Naperville to dedicate a sculpture in honor of the victims and those who came to their aid. Brand Bobosky, chairman of the public art nonprofit Century Walk Corp, said the sculpture’s presence along the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad will prevent the tragedy from...

Acts of bravery emerge from pilloried ship crewAssociated PressAs the ferry sank, some crew members gave their lifejackets to passengers. One refused to leave until she shepherded students off the ship, and was later found dead. Nearly a week after the sinking of the South Korean ferry, the public verdict against the crew of the Sewol has been savage and quick. Some fled the ferry, including the captain, but not all. At least seven of the 29 crew members are...

Profiles of some of S. Korean ferry’s dead, missingAssociated PressA bicycle, never ridden. A lipstick prank pulled off by old friends. Mother-daughter conversations that now burn in the memory, laden with regret. Among the 302 people dead or missing in last week’s South Korean ferry disaster, there are a multitude of stories. Here are just a few.

No JPII fever in Poland as canonization nearsAssociated PressHis death triggered a massive outpouring of grief in Poland. His beatification, an explosion of pride and jubilation. But days before John Paul II is to be declared a saint, many of his countrymen are greeting the landmark with little more than a shrug. One reason is that John Paul has already long been a saint in Polish hearts. But it’s also clear that the enthusiasm that Poles accord...

Retired justice proposes changes to Constitution in new bookAssociated PressRetired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens is calling for no fewer than six changes to the Constitution, two of which are directly related to guns. Other changes outlined in a new book by Stevens would abolish the death penalty, make it easier to limit spending on elections and rein in partisan drawing of electoral districts.

‘Piles and piles’ of bodies in S. Sudan slaughterAssociated PressGunman who targeted both children and the elderly left “piles and piles” of bodies — many of those in a mosque — in a provincial capital in South Sudan, the U.N.’s top humanitarian official in the country said Tuesday.

Lake Zurich to resume tax on electricity, gasBy Bob SusnjaraLake Zurich residents and businesses soon will return to paying a local utility tax that village officials say is needed to help close a projected $1.6 million budget deficit. Village board members at a meeting Monday night voted 4-2 in favor of applying the 2.5 percent tax on monthly electric and natural gas bills starting May 1. The monthly tax rate will double to 5 percent on Nov. 1.

Charlestowne Mall owners want $20M in incentivesBy James FullerSt. Charles aldermen tentatively agreed Monday to give developers of the former Charlestowne Mall the largest incentive package in the city's recent history. The plan rebates up to $20 million in sales taxes to the developers to cover “extraordinary” costs related to changing the infrastructure of the mall site and building, as well as recruiting, new tenants.

How suburbanites can make good recycling even betterBy Harry HitzemanThe line of aluminum cans, plastic water bottles and cardboard boxes winds its way up, down and around a conveyor belt at the Waste Management recycling sorting facility in Grayslake. One by one, workers pluck out items that are out of step with their renewable counterparts. “The No. 1 thing is: Don’t bag your recyclables,” said Lisa Disbrow, Waste Management spokeswoman.

Sports

Bulls fall in OT to Wizards, trail 2-0 in seriesBy Mike McGrawThe Bulls scored 12 points over the final 12 minutes of the game, went nearly eight minutes without a field goal and dropped a frustrating 101-99 overtime decision to the Wizards at the United Center. The Bulls now trail this first-round series 2-0 with Games 3 and 4 in Washington.

Joakim Noah makes his father, Yannick, a believerBy Mike McGrawYannick Noah is both an accomplished tennis pro and popular musician. On Monday in Lincolnshire, he talked about doubting his son Joakim’s own dreams of playing in the NBA. “He was too skinny,” Yannick said after Joakim accepted the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award. “Couldn’t shoot, couldn’t jump, couldn’t do a lot of things. The only thing I knew he had was his drive. That was unbelievable."

Sharks beat Kings 4-3 in OT, take 3-0 series leadAssociated PressPatrick Marleau scored on a backhand 6:20 into overtime, and the San Jose Sharks moved to the brink of the second round with a 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night to take a 3-0 first-round series lead.

McHugh strikes out 12 as Astros beat Seattle 5-2Associated PressCollin McHugh struck out a career-high 12 in his season debut, and Jason Castro, Chris Carter and Matt Dominguez homered to lift the Houston Astros to a 5-2 win over the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday night.

Mundelein shuts out Lake ForestDaily Herald reportShannon Carroll had a goal and an assist, and Lexi Pawlowski made 8 saves in goal, as Mundelein’s soccer team blanked visiting Lake Forest 2-0 in a North Suburban Lake Division match Tuesday night.

Wizards beat Bulls 101-99 in OT to take 2-0 leadAssociated PressBradley Beal came on strong late in regulation to finish with 26 points, Nene scored six of his 17 in overtime and the Washington Wizards beat the Chicago Bulls 101-99 Tuesday to take a 2-0 lead in their first-round series.

Awesome outing for Hoffman’s OsimowiczDaily Herald reportHoffman Estates softball pitcher Tracy Osimowicz got her fourth win of the season and went 4-for-4 at the plate with 4 singles as the Hawks topped visiting Prospect 5-1. Sophomore Angela Roman’s home run in the first inning gave the Knights a 1-0 lead but Hoffman scored 4 runs with two outs in the bottom of the fourth to take command.

St. Charles North scores late to tie St. Charles EastBy Darryl MellemaWhile soccer ties leave both teams level on the scoreboard and with the same half-win and half-loss in the standings, the emotions of such a match can be different depending how a match plays out. For example, St. Charles East dominated for large stretches of Tuesday’s Upstate Eight Conference River Division match with crosstown rival St. Charles North. The Saints took the lead thanks to a Darcy Cunningham goal — yet walked off North’s field disappointed when Sophie Pohl equalized with 3 minutes to play.

Headley’s HR lifts Padres past Brewers 2-1 in 12Associated PressChase Headley homered in the top of the 12th inning and San Diego relievers tossed six shutout innings in the Padres’ 2-1 win Tuesday night over the Milwaukee Brewers. Huston Street retired the side in order in the bottom of the 12th for his seventh save after Donn Roach (1-0) allowed just one hit over two scoreless innings.

No. 500 fitting for Stevenson’s FriedrichsDaily Herald reportWhen he recorded his 400th win in April of 2008, Stevenson softball coach Larry Friedrichs received an engraved bat from his players. He got another gift from appreciative players Tuesday. As the Patriots gathered in the outfield following their 6-5 win over visiting Mundelein in a North Suburban Lake Division battle, senior first baseman Abby O’Connor presented her coach a plaque. The victory marked No. 500 for Friedrichs.

Baseball/Fox Valley roundupDaily Herald reportElgin 6, Streamwood 5: Matt Karinski went 4-for-4 with 2 doubles and 3 RBI, and the senior delivered the game-winning hit in the top of the ninth inning as Elgin knocked off Streamwood in the Upstate Eight River opener for both teams Tuesday. Jack Koeckritz went 3-for-4 with 2 doubles and drove in a run, and winning pitcher Kiko Mari (1-2) held the Sabres to 2 earned runs on 7 hits in 8 innings to earn the win for Elgin (4-6, 2-5). Junior Jon Nelson pitched a scoreless ninth to earn his second save. Eric Hamlin went 2-for-4 with a double and a walk and scored twice, and reliever Kevin Drwal took the loss in relief for Streamwood (4-9, 2-5). West Chicago 5, Bartlett 0: Jake Barrutia went 2-for-3 with a double, but the Hawks managed only 3 hits against winning pitcher Fred Gosbeth and reliever Antonio Solis in this Upstate Eight River defeat. Doug VanDyke took the loss for Bartlett (4-7, 3-5). He allowed 5 runs (2 earned) on 6 hits and 2 walks and struck out a pair.Dundee-Crown 4, Crystal Lake South 2: Nine Chargers collected 10 hits and three pitchers combined to hold the Gators to 2 earned runs on 7 hits in this Fox Valley Conference Valley Division opener. Sam Ray went 2-for-3. Ahren Ludwig (4 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 3 K) was the winning pitcher for Dundee-Crown (8-7, 5-1). Michael Avella and AJ Howaniec drove in runs and Josh Smith took the loss for CL South (7-5, 5-2). Prairie Ridge 4, Cary-Grove 1: Jason Barrett had the only multihit game and Andrew Splitt drove in the only run in this FVC Valley opener for both teams. Splitt took the loss after allowing 4 earned runs on 4 hits. He walked three and struck out six in 6 innings for Cary-Grove (8-8, 2-3).Hampshire 5, Grayslake North 4: With the bases loaded and two away in the bottom of the seventh, Michael Merchut singled home 2 runs to lead the Whip-Purs to a walk-off victory in the FVC Fox opener. Trey Schramm doubled and drove in 2 runs, and winning pitcher Colin Gogoel allowed an earned run on 2 hits in 1⅓ relief innings for Hampshire (4-9, 1-6).Aurora Central Catholic 7, St. Edward 6: The Chargers scored twice in the bottom of the eighth to win a wild one in the Suburban Christian Gold. St. Edward scored a run in the top of the seventh, but ACC tied it up in its half. The Wave took a 6-5 lead in the eighth when Ryan Nudd scored on an error. Relief pitcher Nick Bouley took the loss for St. Edward (3-11-1, 2-4).Westminster Christian 5, Alden-Hebron 3: Ian Merlak’s RBI single keyed a 3-run top of the fourth inning as the Warriors snapped a 1-1 tie and went on to win this Northeastern Athletic matchup. Winning pitcher Justin Rasmussen held the Giants to 1 unearned run on 3 hits and 6 walks and he struck out 7 in 5 innings for the Warriors (5-12).

St. Francis finds a way to winBy Jacob OnakThe first and second games of the Wheaton Academy-St. Francis series definitely had one thing in common — a narrow St. Francis victory.

Lake Zurich gets connected, stops LibertyvilleBy Rusty SilberTeam chemistry and communication are a big part of the success Lake Zurich’s girls soccer team has had this spring. Clearly, it’s one reason the Bears are one of the leaders in the North Suburban Lake Division.

Banged-up Sox battle but fall 8-6By Scot GregorShaking off a flurry of injuries, including ace starter Chris Sale's flexor strain, the depleted White Sox roared back from a 6-1 deficit at Detroit Tuesday and made it interesting before losing to the Tigers 8-6.

Morales leads Rockies to 2-1 win over GiantsAssociated PressNolan Arenado hit a go-ahead homer leading off the fifth and Franklin Morales outdueled Madison Bumgarner, lifting the Colorado Rockies to a 2-1 win over the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night.

St. Charles North tops Geneva in error-filled gameBy Craig BrueskeAfter a game in which Geneva and St. Charles North combined for 26 runs, 25 hits and 14 errors, Vikings coach Matt Hahn seemed to sum things up appropriately. “That could have been one of the uglier high school baseball games I’ve been around ever — as a player or as a coach,” said Hahn, whose team wound up on the wrong side of an 18-8, 6-inning decision at the hands of the host North Stars (12-2, 6-1) Tuesday in Upstate Eight Conference River Division action.

Barton, Libertyville shift into shutout modeBy Joe AguilarLibertyville pounded out 11 hits, including three from third baseman Hunter Van Wagner, in improving to 12-2 and 5-0 in the North Suburban Lake Division as Jeff Barton tossed a complete-game 2-hitter in a 7-0 victory over Lake Zurich.

Epstein talks rebuilding; Cubs beat DiamondbacksBy Bruce MilesOne the eve of the 100th anniversary of Wrigley Field's opening, Cubs president Theo Esptein said that losing is always hard but that he feels this is a "plucky" team that needs to hit its stride and get on base more.

Eck, St. Charles East slow down BataviaBy John LemonLen Asquini called Tuesday a new start for St. Charles East — and the Saints couldn’t have responded any better. Taking a 4-game losing streak on the road to play Upstate Eight Conference River Division power Batavia, the Saints snapped that skid in impressive fashion, riding the left arm of Adam Eck and some timely hitting for a 3-1 win.

Nenn, Barrington rise up against SchaumburgBy Bill EsbrookHalfway through the Mid-Suburban League boys volleyball season, Barrington is right where it wants to be: Undefeated in conference play, and in first place in the West Division. Led by senior defensive specialist Indy Nenn (10 digs), the Broncos scored a resounding 25-16, 25-17 victory over visiting Schaumburg on Tuesday in a battle of teams that both came in to the match with 4-0 conference records.

Girls soccer/Fox Valley roundupDaily Herald reportBurlington Central 1, Richmond-Burton 0: With a goal late at Rocket Hill, the Rockets (4-3-2, 3-0-1) were able to stay unbeaten in the Big Northern East. Brittany Bourdage set up Alyssa Massina with the eventual game-winner. Abbi Ciganek saved 6 while in goal.Neuqua Valley 1, South Elgin 0: Despite a stellar effort by keeper Jourdan Vaulkner, the Storm (7-3, 2-2) could not find its offense in Upstate Eight Conference Valley Division action. Vaulkner finished with 11 saves, allowing just one through in the first half.Harvest Christian 4, IMSA 0: Sprinting to a 3-0 lead at the half, the Lions (5-1, 2-0) cruised to an easy Northeastern Athletic Conference win. Ellie Burzlaff was all over the field, finishing with a hat trick and assisting on Morgan Lockwood’s goal. Keeper Sydney Doby finished with 3 saves.Elgin 3, Streamwood 1: With a 2-1 lead at the half, Elgin’s Anna Leon scored an insurance goal and the Maroons (4-3, 2-1) picked up another UEC River Division win. Marceci Santiago, assisted by Bopha Travis, and Jenny Lopez both scored in the first half while the Sabres’ (2-8-1, 1-3) Alondra Blanco’s goal brought it within one. Hannah Demel had 9 saves in the win while Nathalie Guindon had 6 for Streamwood.Batavia 6, Larkin 0: The Royals (1-8-1, 0-3) had trouble stopping Batavia in the first half, trailing 5-0 and never recovering, falling for the third straight time in UEC play. Alejandra Villagomez finished with 12 saves in the net for Larkin.Crystal Lake South 3, Jacobs 0: Already up one at half, the Gators (6-2-1, 1-0) chipped in two more to win easily in Fox Valley Conference Valley Division action. Alex Romano had a goal and an assist to lead the Gators. Jaclyn Przybylski was the anchor in goal earning the shutout.Huntley 1, Prairie Ridge 0 (PKs): After 80 minutes the Red Raiders (10-4, 1-0) need a bit more time to pick up their FVC Valley Division opener. Rachel Zobott, Abigail Nordeen and Taryn Jakubowski each made their penalty kicks while keeper Jessica Galason saved 6 in regulation.Hampshire 3, Woodstock North 2 (PKs): Despite having a 2-0 lead at the half, the Whip-Purs (3-6, 1-0) needed a 3-1 decision in penalty kicks to earn their first FVC Fox Division win. Lexie Maze had both goals in the first half and powered the offense. Kaila Kienzler finished with 10 saves.Dundee-Crown 2, Grayslake Central 2: After a flurry of goals to open, the Chargers (2-3-3) could not push one across after half settling for a tie in FVC crossover play. Shannon Feld, assisted by Kystal Meraz, scored in the sixth minute to take the lead. Isabela Miranda had 4 saves in goal.West Chicago 2, Bartlett 1: Tied 1-1 going into the second half, the Hawks (8-4-1, 1-3-0) could not find the back of the net, falling again in the UEC Valley. Kendra Videckis scored off a feed from Jenna Noesen while keeper Amanda Lozada did all she could, finishing with 13 saves.Elgin Academy 5, Morgan Park 2: The Hilltoppers picked up their first Independent School League win and first win overall. Melissa Trudrung and Veronica Clements each had a pair of goals to lead the offense.

Softball/Fox Valley roundupDaily Herald reportSouth Elgin 14, Streamwood 4: Mallory Mecklenburg went 2-for-3 with a double, a home run and 2 RBI to lead the Storm (8-6, 2-3) in the Upstate Eight. Cassidy Westlund (2-for-3, 2 triples, 2 RBI), Taylor Ford (3-for-3, 2 RBI) and Sam Helton (2-for-4, 2B, 3 RBI also contributed for South Elgin. Kari Dobler was the complete-game winning pitcher, allowing 3 earned runs and 6 hits. Jessica Daley had a home run, a double and 3 RBI for the Sabres (1-7, 1-6) while Melissa Malcom added 2 hits including a double. Kaitlyn Hedger was the losing pitcher.McHenry 11, Huntley 7: Megan Baczewski (HR, 2B), Taylor Stone (2B, 2 RBI) and Jessica Shields (RBI) each had 2 hits for the Red Raiders in this Fox Valley Conference Valley Division loss. Haley Spannraft took the loss for Huntley (6-7, 1-2).Jacobs 16, Dundee-Crown 0: Sarah Murray (2 RBI) and Emily Borg (2 RBI) each had 3 hits including a home run to lead the Golden Eagles (11-5, 4-2) in the FVC Valley. Alyssa Lach added 4 hits for Jacobs while Kelsey Cummings, Danielle O’Toole and Courtney Cotugno each had doubles and Taylor Belo a triple. Lach was also the winning pitcher, going 3 innings in relief of starter Kelsey Peters. Megan Emerson had a double for Dundee-Crown (2-4, 0-3) and Lauren Girard was the losing pitcher.Waubonsie Valley 10, Larkin 0: Waubonsie Valley’s Jordan Kurth no-hit Larkin in this five-inning Upstate Eight game. Emily Rojo took the loss for the Royals (3-8, 1-5).Prairie Ridge 5, CL South 1: Caitlin Fater was 2-for-3 and Sam McLean had a triple for Crystal Lake South (5-6, 2-3) in the FVC Valley. Hailee Massie took the loss for the Gators, allowing just 6 hits with 4 strikeouts and no walks and only 1 earned run.Alden-Hebron 11, Westminster Christian 9: Sarah Schmitt had 2 home runs and 7 RBI for Westminster in this Northeastern Athletic Conference loss. Becca Fugiel took the loss for the Warriors (2-5-1, 2-1).

Ellsbury returns, helps Yanks beat Red Sox 9-3Associated PressJacoby Ellsbury doubled, tripled, drove in two runs and made a sliding catch in his return to Fenway Park, helping the New York Yankees and Masahiro Tanaka beat the Boston Red Sox 9-3 on Tuesday night. Ellsbury received a mixed reception in his first game as a visitor after seven seasons with the Red Sox before signing a $153 million, seven-year contract with the Yankees.

Shields, Moustakas lead Royals past Indians 8-2Associated PressJames Shields allowed two runs in six innings and Mike Moustakas hit a three-run homer to lead the Kansas City Royals to an 8-2 win over the Cleveland Indians on Tuesday night. Shields (2-2) struck out nine and won his second straight start.

Jacobs gets the upper hand on HuntleyBy Jerry FitzpatrickAmong the Jacobs baseball program’s notable achievements from last season’s record-setting 25-win campaign were its first regional and sectional championships. However, a prize the Golden Eagles did not get their talons on was the title in the highly competitive Valley Division of the Fox Valley Conference. Huntley and Crystal Lake South shared that accomplishment. Jacobs has never won a FVC baseball title, but it took an important first step toward filling that resume gap by knocking off cofavorite Huntley 2-1 in a well-pitched game in Algonquin Tuesday.

Conant has the answer in win against Elk GroveBy John LeuschWhen Becca Maher raced across home plate on Brianna Leach’s double to give Elk Grove a 1-0 lead in the top of the third inning, Conant’s players weren’t too happy. “We got really motivated when they scored first,” said Cougars junior shortstop DeeDee Durr. “It’s our home field and we normally score first.” The Cougars didn’t wait long to take out their frustration. They answered with 5 runs in the bottom of the third and went on to post a 9-4 victory over the visiting Grenadiers (13-3, 2-2) in the Mid-Suburban League softball game.

St. Edward trips up Wheaton AcademyBy Steve NicholsAs a prolific scoring threat, St. Edward’s Allison Kruk knows she’s a magnet for opposing defenders. In some cases, Kruk can be limited to just one shot at best so she has to make due with whatever it is on her plate. That was Tuesday’s case in the Green Wave’s 4-2 win over Wheaton Academy in Suburban Christian girls soccer action at Greg True Field in Elgin, and the Concordia University-bound forward made that one and only shot count 8 minutes into the second half.

Neuqua’s Bilgri wins pitchers’ duelBy D.J. WanbergTuesday’s St. Charles East at Neuqua Valley softball game didn’t contribute much to the scoring-highlight videos of either team.

Neuqua Valley’s Sommers lets his defense do the restBy Kevin SchmitYou don’t have to pile up strikeouts to be dominant on the mound. Sometimes all it takes is throwing strikes and trusting your defense. That’s exactly what Neuqua Valley senior pitcher Andy Sommers did in leading his team to Tuesday’s 3-1 Upstate Eight Conference baseball victory over Metea Valley in Aurora.

Elk Grove names Guth girls basketball head coachBy John LeuschJennifer Guth learned from some of the finest coaches in the Mid-Suburban League. Now Elk Grove girls get to learn from Guth. She has been named the school’s new girls basketball coach after serving as an assistant for one year in the program and six at Barrington.

IC finally gets to Zdroik, St. EdwardBy Scott MillerIC Catholic Prep managed to turn St. Edward pitcher Lindsay Zdroik’s pinpoint control into her own worst enemy on Tuesday. Zdroik was cruising along with a no-hitter and a 1-0 lead with two outs in the sixth inning before the Knights turned the tables on the sophomore to rally for a 2-1 Suburban Christian Conference Blue Division softball win at the Elgin Sports Complex.

Canadiens sweep Lightning after 4-3 winAssociated PressMax Pacioretty lifted the Montreal Canadiens into the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs Tuesday night with a power-play goal with 43 seconds remaining for a 4-3 victory and a four-game sweep of Tampa Bay. The first team to advance this year, the Canadiens also got goals from Daniel Briere, Brendan Gallagher and Lars Eller. Montreal now faces a long wait for the Eastern Conference semifinal against the winner of the Boston-Detroit series.

Price, DeJesus key Rays’ 7-3 win over TwinsAssociated PressDavid Price allowed six hits in his first complete game of the season, David DeJesus drove in three runs, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Minnesota Twins 7-3 on Tuesday night. Price (3-1) struck out 12 in his ninth career complete game.

Wainwright injures knee, Cardinals blank Mets 3-0Associated PressAdam Wainwright threw seven neat innings before leaving with a knee injury, and Jon Jay hit a two-run single that sent the St. Louis Cardinals to a 3-0 victory over the New York Mets on Tuesday night.

Pujols’ 500th HR helps Angels beat Nationals 7-2Associated PressAngels first baseman Alberg Pujols became the first major leaguer to hit his 499th and 500th homers in the same game, driving in five runs to help Los Angeles beat the Washington Nationals 7-2 Tuesday night.

Cueto pitches Reds by Pirates 4-1Associated PressJohnny Cueto tossed his second three-hitter against the Pittsburgh in a week and the Cincinnati Reds eased past the struggling Pirates 4-1 on Tuesday night.

Bartlett puts it all together to snap Elgin’s streakBy John RadtkeThe three things every softball coach hopes for every game — good pitching, solid defense and timely hitting — were all clicking for Bartlett Tuesday afternoon. Senior Holly Pagan fired a 3-hitter, the Hawks played an errorless game, and they used timely home run hitting to defeat Elgin 6-1 in an Upstate Eight Conference game played on a deceptively sunny but windy and chilly day in Bartlett.

Pacers rally past Hawks 101-85 to even seriesAssociated PressPaul George scored 27 points and George Hill had all 15 of his points in the second half, leading the Indiana Pacers to a 101-85 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series.

Both teams savoring this seriesBy Mike SpellmanEven in the midst of a crazy competitive series, Joel Quenneville can take a step back and appreciate what he and his team are in the midst of. “This is a tremendously emotional and passionate series — in three games,” the Blackhawks coach said. “It’s extremely close. “With the playoffs, that’s what makes it so special.

Jose Fernandez Ks 14, Marlins shut out Braves 1-0Associated PressJose Fernandez matched his career high with 14 strikeouts in eight innings and combined with Steve Cishek on a three-hitter as the Miami Marlins shut out the Atlanta Braves 1-0 on Tuesday night.

Big Ten golf titles on the line this springBy Len ZiehmIllinois and Northwestern have become perennial contenders for the men’s and women’s golf titles in the Big Ten Conference, and that’ll again be the case when collegiate postseason play begins this weekend. The NU women shared last year’s Big Ten title and are the highest-ranked conference team (No. 12) in the national polls. Last year coach Emily Fletcher’s team shared the title with Purdue, giving NU its first Big Ten crown in women’s golf. This year’s team doesn’t have any seniors and will defend on a different course starting on Friday.

Shot blockers put life and limb on the lineBy Mike SpellmanOutside of the anthem, the two goals scored by the Blackhawks and a handful of saves made by Corey Crawford, the biggest roars of the night during Monday’s victory over the Blues at the United Center came when Michal Handzus and Niklas Hjalmarsson sacrificed their bodies — literally — to block St. Louis shots while on the penalty kill. And to a man, the Blackhawks thought that response was absolutely fitting.

Armstrong coach Bruyneel banned for 10 yearsAssociated PressLance Armstrong’s longtime coach, Johan Bruyneel, was banned for 10 years on Tuesday for helping to organize massive doping on teams led by the disgraced cyclist. The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency announced the verdicts of an American Arbitration Association panel against Bruyneel and two medical staff, completing its lengthy investigation which saw Armstrong banished from cycling in 2012.

Wrigley a field where dreams came trueBy Mike ImremThe Cubs never have won a World Series while calling Wrigley Field their home. Still, fond memories fill the ballpark on its 100th anniversary this week. As a living, breathing, thinking, talking, smirking organism, the place has decided not to permit the Cubs to win championships in the house that disappointment built.

Images: Daily Herald prep photos of the weekThe Daily Herald Prep Photos of the Week gallery includes the best high school sports images by our photographers featuring volleyball, softball, baseball, gymnastics, soccer and track.

Business

Motorola Mobility bids final adieu to longtime Libertyville homeBy Anna Marie KukecMotorola Mobility is officially out of Libertyville as the company cuts the ribbon on its downtown Chicago headquarters. Motorola Mobility was founded in Chicago more than 80 years ago and returns to the city after 38 years in Libertyville. The company is now the Merchandise Mart’s largest tenant and occupies more than 600,000 square feet on the top four floors and rooftop.

EU approves Beam acquisition; closing set April 30Daily Herald News ServicesDeerfield-based spirits maker Beam Inc.’s $16 billion acquisition by Japanese company Suntory Holdings is expected to close April 30 now that the European Commission has approved the purchase.

Earnings and corporate deals lift U.S. stocksAssociated PressCorporate deals and some solid earnings reports propelled the stock market to its sixth straight gain Tuesday. Allergan surged after Valeant Pharmaceuticals said it had teamed up with activist investor Bill Ackman to make a bid for the Botox maker. Netflix and Harley-Davidson rose sharply after reporting earnings that beat analyst’s expectations.

In Internet TV case, justices may have heads in the cloudAssociated PressGrappling with fast-changing technology, Supreme Court justices debated Tuesday whether they can protect the copyrights of TV broadcasters to the shows they send out without strangling innovations in the use of the internet. The high court heard arguments in a dispute between television broadcasters and Aereo Inc., which takes free television signals from the airwaves and charges subscribers to watch the programs on laptop computers, smartphones and even their large-screen televisions. The case has the potential to bring big changes to the television industry.

McDonald’s profit slips as U.S. sales declineAssociated PressOak Brook-based McDonald’s is fighting to hold onto customers in the U.S. The world’s biggest hamburger chain said sales at established U.S. locations fell 1.7 percent in the first three months of the year as guest counts declined. After a decade of consistent growth, sales also declined last year as McDonald’s struggled to roll out an array of new menu items and fend off competitors.

Teen stowaway shows holes in vast airport securityAssociated PressSurveillance cameras at San Jose International Airport successfully captured the teenager on the tarmac, climbing up the landing gear of a jet. But in the end, the cameras failed because no one noticed the security breach until the plane — and the boy — landed in Hawaii.

Netflix poised to raise prices after strong 1QAssociated PressNetflix is preparing a sequel unlikely to be a hit with its subscribers. The Internet video service is about to raise its prices for the first time in three years to help pay for more Internet video programming such as its popular political drama “House of Cards.”

Lakeshore Recycling gets Chicago schools contractMarketwiredLakeshore Recycling Systems of Morton Grove has been awarded an exclusive 5-year contract to handle recycling and waste removal services for all 658 schools in the Chicago Public Schools system.

International business drives ITW’s 1Q revenuesGlenview-basedIllinois Tool Works reported first quarter 2014 revenues grew four percent primarily o the strength of the company’s international usinesses. Total revenues for the quarter were $3.6 billion and operating income increased 16 percent to $667 million.

Comcast 1Q earns surge on upbeat NBC resultsAssociated PressComcast Corp. said Tuesday that its first-quarter net income rose by 30 percent as ad revenue surged at broadcast network NBC, helped by the Winter Olympics in Sochi and Jimmy Fallon's elevation as host of "The Tonight Show." The results beat Wall Street estimates and its shares rose more than 2 percent in premarket trading.

Japan, U.S. struggle to bridge gap on freer tradeAssociated PressJapanese and U.S. negotiators are struggling to reach a preliminary agreement on a free trade pact that might have served as a centerpiece for President Barack Obama’s visit to Tokyo this week. Japan’s economy minister Akira Amari told reporters Tuesday that the two sides remained “at a considerable distance” over trade in farm products and vehicles a day before Obama arrives.

General Motors seeks more protection from suitsAssociated PressGeneral Motors Co. has filed suit in a U.S. bankruptcy court asking a judge to protect the company from legal claims for actions that took place before it emerged from bankruptcy in 2009. The suit was filed Monday evening in the Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. A hearing has not yet been set.

Milsap, Wiseman among Country Hall inducteesBy Chris Talbott, Associated PressRonnie Milsap, Mac Wiseman and the late Hank Cochran are the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. The 2014 induction class was introduced by Kix Brooks during a news conference Tuesday at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The trio will be inducted later this year. “I anticipated and hoped for it a long time,” Wiseman said of his selection in the veterans era category.

MC5’s Wayne Kramer returns with jazz albumBy John RogersIt’s been 14 years since Wayne Kramer released an album, and the former MC5 guitarist says he expects fans of his work with that seminal punk-metal band might be annoyed with his journey into improv jazz in “Lexington.” Baffled might have been a better word choice, but those who stick around until the end will be pleasantly surprised — and rewarded.

Andrew Gross asks tough questions in new novelBy Jeff Ayers, Associated PressHow far would you go to protect your loved ones? What if keeping your special needs child in an expensive, properly caring environment meant having to break the law? Would you do it? Author Andrew Gross forces readers to grapple with the extremes one must go through to survive in such a situation in his new novel, “Everything to Lose.”

Barrington native a scream in upcoming 'Godzilla'By Jamie Sotonoff and Dann GireIf you see the May 16 release of the new “Godzilla” movie, keep your eyes peeled for an attractive casino tourist screaming into the camera. She's Barrington native Dona Wood, an actress now living in Los Angeles. “I fell into this job,” Wood said. “So I get cast as a member of this casino group. The camera comes on me and I'm supposed to scream, which I did. I screamed right into the camera."

NBC adding Weir, Lipinski to Derby coverageBy David Bauder, Associated PressNBC is adding Johnny Weir and Tara Lipinski to its Kentucky Derby telecast as fashion correspondents next week, illustrating how the network’s coverage now reflects one of the most female-friendly televised sporting events of the year. The two figure skaters, who were the breakout stars of NBC’s Sochi Olympics broadcast team, will comment on the fashionable outfits worn by members of the rich and celebrity-filled audience who try to avoid spilling mint juleps on their designer duds, the network said Tuesday.

G. Love keeps grooving on ‘Sugar’By Caryn Rousseau, Associated PressIt’s been 20 years and G. Love & Special Sauce are still grooving with their blues-meets-hip-hop sound. The trio is back together on “Sugar,” with their signature mix of bluesy tracks and songs with more mainstream appeal.

Go figure: Olympics spark fever for learning to skateBy Arlene MilesEvery four years it happens. Glued to the television for two-plus weeks, you and your family watch the winter Olympics and are fascinated by the elegance and athleticism of the figure skaters. Suddenly one of your children announces, “I want to do that.”

Cool season annuals add needed colorBy Diana Stoll, The Planter’s PaletteWhy wait until Mother’s Day to add color to beds, borders and container gardens? Cool-season annuals announce the beginning of the gardening season. They thrive in cool weather; most can tolerate light frosts; and all will brighten your mood.

The journey back from an eating disorderBy Catherine DoddEsther Martin describes the day she discovered her daughter Brooke needed help: Brooke had flown home from college for a visit. She was shocked by Brooke's appearance. In just a few short months, Brooke had lost so much weight that she was “almost unrecognizable.”

David Baldacci hits ‘The Target’ with new thrillerBy Jeff Ayers, Associated PressIn David Baldacci’s latest thriller, “The Target,” master assassins Will Robie and his partner, Jessica Reel, are supposedly given a clean slate by the government on the condition that they take an assignment that is — in reality — a suicide mission. The president knows it could mean his impeachment if they are caught. Evan Tucker, the head of the CIA, doubts they can follow orders and would prefer to see them die before they take the assignment.

Gurnee's Momcorn a unique spot for Latin American fareBy Jennifer BillockAt Momcorn in Gurnee, it's all in the name. The restaurant's main draw: maize. Maize as in corn on the cob, corn tortillas, corn-based drinks, handmade tamales. As for adding mom to the name, co-owners Kathy Ross and Sergio Rivera wanted to pay homage to the woman in everyone's life. Momcorn serves a mix of authentic Latin American and Mexican food; many menu items are gluten-free and made from scratch.

In Mexican jungle, discover the surreal art garden Las PozasBy Teresa de Miguel Escribano, Associated PressAt the end of a long, dirt road in Mexico’s northeast jungle, two spiral staircases appear, leading nowhere amid an ornate concrete structure. Giant concrete fleur-de-lis flank a path, and tall bamboo-shaped columns surround a house with no walls. Oversize plaster orchids are in permanent bloom, while a natural waterfall ceaselessly flows down a mountain. This is Las Pozas, a dreamy, little-known garden of surreal art, where sculptures evoke the ruins of ancient Greece but are overrun by exotic jungle plants.

Buy or rent? Skates must fit for best resultsBy Arlene MilesTo make sure that beginning lessons are successful, make sure your skater has proper skates. Whether or not one can ice skate has nothing to do with weak ankles as that is nothing but a persistent myth. It’s all to do with the boot and the fit.

Putin will continue dancing to his own tuneBy Kathleen ParkerColumnist Kathleen Parker: The new “agreement” between Russia, the U.S. and our allies is exactly what the former KGB agent ordered. News: This isn’t to say it’s not a good “prospect” for ending tensions in Ukraine, as President Obama has said. But neither should it surprise anyone that Vladimir Putin is willing to step back from that country — not to ease economic sanctions but to satisfy his own designs.

Progressive tax unfair to taxpayersBy David W. FromGuest columnist David From: There are a lot of competing proposals swirling around Springfield to raise Illinoisans’ taxes in order to perpetuate all of the things government spends money on. But who is looking out for the taxpayer?

Illinois should at least ‘break even’An Aurora letter to the editor: I appreciate the Daily Herald’s efforts to identify ways to improve the efficiency of our state and local governments. However, another topic I would like you to report on is the phenomenon of “Payers and Takers.”

Kane forest board doesn’t get missionA Sleepy Hollow letter to the editor: Once again, the Kane County Forest Preserve District has demonstrated why forest preserve commissioners should be elected separately from county board members. Instead of acting solely in the interests of our forest preserves, they are playing “Let’s Make a Deal” with ComEd over the routing of huge new steel towers to carry power lines.